PORTLAND, Ore. — Today Congressman David Wu released the following statement after Vestas announced the company’s intention to move its North American headquarters to the historic Meier & Frank Depot building in 2012:

“Vestas’ plan to add 100 to 200 new jobs in Portland and establish its headquarters in the Meier & Frank Depot building is just the sort of investment that our region needs to create long-term economic growth.  In addition to the additional jobs at Vestas, this expansion will generate construction and design jobs during the building renovation and contribute to the continued expansion of Oregon’s renewable energy industry, which will pay environmental and economic dividends for years to come. 

“The incentive package signed this morning includes up to $31 million in potential Recovery Zone Facility Bonds funded through the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act.  When I joined my colleagues in supporting that historic legislation, I did so in the hopes that federal funds would be used to spur private-sector, family-wage jobs for Oregonians.  With this announcement, Vestas is further confirming the value of that investment.

“Congratulations to Governor Kulongoski, Mayor Adams, state and city staff, and the Vestas team.  This is another great step in the right direction for the state of Oregon as it continues to grow its national leadership in renewable energy and innovative job creation.”